GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Special Tools

J-42188-B Ball Joint Separator

Removal Procedure


    Object Number: 172678  Size: SH
  1. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle.
  2. Remove the brake caliper and rotor. Refer to Front Brake Rotor Replacement and Front Brake Caliper Replacement.

  3. Object Number: 65333  Size: SH
  4. Remove the stabilizer shaft link from the lower control arm.

  5. Object Number: 919156  Size: SH
  6. Disconnect the wheel speed sensor electrical connector.
  7. Support the lower control arm using a jackstand.
  8. Separate the steering linkage outer tie rod ball stud from the steering knuckle. Refer to Steering Linkage Outer Tie Rod Replacement.
  9. Separate and remove the upper control arm ball joint stud from the steering knuckle using J 42188 . Refer to Upper Control Arm Replacement.
  10. Using J-42188-B separate and remove the lower ball joint stud from the steering knuckle. Refer to Lower Control Arm Replacement.
  11. Remove the steering knuckle from the vehicle.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 65333  Size: SH
  1. Install steering knuckle to the upper control arm and the lower control arm. Refer to Upper Control Arm Replacement and Lower Control Arm Replacement.
  2. Remove the jackstand.
  3. Install the steering linkage outer tie rod ball stud to the steering knuckle. Refer to Steering Linkage Outer Tie Rod Replacement.
  4. Caution: Refer to Fastener Caution in the Preface section.

  5. Install the stabilizer shaft link to the lower control arm and tighten to 72 N·m (53 lb ft).

  6. Object Number: 919156  Size: SH
  7. Connect the wheel speed sensor electrical connector.
  8. Install the brake rotor and caliper. Refer to Front Brake Rotor Replacement and Front Brake Caliper Replacement.
  9. Install the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation.
  10. Lower the vehicle.
  11. Check the front wheel toe and adjust as necessary. Refer to Diagnostic Starting Point - Disc Brakes and Wheel Alignment Measurement.